People across all regions
in Singapore are likely to find a place to worship. Everywhere you go, you will
see a mosque, church or a Buddhist temple. Singaporeans are proud of their multicultural state where everyone lives in harmony and never looks down upon diverse
cultures and religions. As you apply for your travel documents through VisaExpress, there is no need to worry about where you will worship. Here are the
popular temples you are likely to find in Singapore.
Thian Hock Keng Temple
This temple with a Chinese
origin was built in 1840. People would visit here to pray to the goddess of the
sea for a smooth journey. The Chinese are now grateful that this temple was
made a permanent structure, which they use to this date. Any person from China
can call this her or his place of worship when in Singapore.
Sri Mariamman Temple
The temple has a Hindu
origin and was established by Sir Stamford Raffles during his visit to India in
1819. However, it was not until 1827 that the temple was fully built. Today,
most Hindu believers gather here to worship the goddess of motherhood. It is a
colorful temple as it has seen great renovations in recent years.
Hajjah Fatimah Mosque
In 1845, a Malay business
woman started the mosque. However, the Malay architects and builders gave the
mosque a perfect rebuild in the early 20th century. It is a rule of the mosque
that women should cover themselves well. Women should never reveal their arms and legs in
order to worship at the mosque. It is open during the day but closes in the
evening at 6 PM after which no one can enter.
Sultan Mosque
This is one of the biggest
mosques in Singapore. According to reliable data from the mosque officials,
most visitors who are Muslim must visit here whenever they visit Singapore. It
is open to tourists of all backgrounds since it has a designated area to inform
them about Islam. They cover topics like what Islam is, who Allah is and other
important information on the religion. People of other religions can access the
mosque all days except Friday, which is reserved for Muslim believers to hold
their services and prayers.
Armenian Church of St
Gregory
This church stands as the
oldest church on this Island. It dates all the way back to 1835, when the
Armenians donated the funds to build it. Europeans and the Chinese also had
some input on the project. This church is not only a worship center for
Christians but also provides a tranquil place that is surrounded by
well-manicured gardens and lawns.
St Andrew’s Cathedral
When Col. Ronald
MacPherson built the church in the mid-19th century, he probably did not know
that it would be a renowned church today. Although the new Cathedral was
rebuilt after the old one was struck twice by lightning, people still credit
its existence to the founders. Today, the church is a busy hub especially on
Sundays when the main services are held.
Even though there are more
religious centers in Singapore, these are the main ones you are likely to find
interesting. Pick yours and enjoy the worship and prayers according to their
respective schedules.
About the Author: Jayne Browhot is a passionate traveler who loves to write about her experiences immersing with various cultures of the world as well as learning new languages.
